Contributor

COL David W. Sutherland, U.S. Army (ret)

Former military leader, now achieving winning results as founder of The Sutherland Partnership and chairman of the Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services

Colonel David W. Sutherland is the founder of Sutherland Partnership. The principles and operational structure of his “Lead from the Front” Leadership are based on his exceptional military experiences. From his 29 years of service, including as a Brigade Commander in Iraq, he modernized critical core leader competencies such as ethical leadership development, winning as a team during uncertainty and visualizing solutions to achieve results. Understanding the complexities of diverse cultures and linking relationships, Sutherland increases accomplishments and enhances motivation to contribute to overall group goals. He serves as the Chairman of Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services and actively contributes to numerous national veteran and military family committees and boards. Dixon Center operates in strategic partnership with national nonprofit Fedcap. Sutherland speaks in communities at universities, businesses and conferences around the country as a vocal advocate and leader for transformational change. Colonel Sutherland’s final assignment prior to retirement was as the Special Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff with principle focus on Warrior and Family Support. By visiting hundreds of communities and assisting thousands of organizations, he created a nationwide network of support utilizing grassroots solutions for veterans and their families. Awards and decorations include, among others, the Bronze Star Medal with oak leaf cluster, Purple Heart, Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman's Badge Second Award and Senior Parachutist Badge. He is also the 2013 Commitment to Service Award recipient presented by Give An Hour, 2008 Freedom Award recipient presented by No Greater Sacrifice Foundation and the 2011 Meritorious Service Award recipient presented by the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans for his work on behalf of returning service members, veterans, military families and families of the fallen.